Friday, June 29, 2007
Teachable.
I've recently learnt this term, Teachable, from Ms Koh.
I've also learnt something important from her regarding teaching.
I went back to KCB the other day and basically everything was in a mess. I was supposed to tutor the tuba section but somehow i ended up tutoring the trombone/euphonium section. I would not say that they are un-teachable but they are probably lacking spirit. I can tell from their faces that they are questioning me why am i teaching them by playing long notes. I know the reason why, I'm doing so but i bet they won't understand even if i told them. I know that they must be thinking that why am i not teaching them more advance techniques? The reason is that they will find a chance to use these techniques unless their basic is good.
I recently taught a boy named, Wilson(tuba), who is from Pei Cai Secondary. Initially, he was a weak player but after 3 days at the Outreached! camp he became more confident in playing. He might not have perfect pitch listening, articulation or fingering but it was definitely a joy to be teaching. He is enthusiastic and passionate. How much he has learnt, I've got no idea but i can definitely hear the vast difference since he 1st steped into NPCB. I'm very proud of him.
But its quite sad to say that there are those who think that they are high and mighty and refused to be taught (even if they are from WW sections i can tell their mistakes quite obviously) These are the quite unteachable ones. Unless they are humble, they will never improve. Such cockiness, is a great NONO to any musician.
Posted by Kenneth at Friday, June 29, 2007